NORFOLK, VA -- First Colony Coffee and Tea said it has ceased operations at its Norfolk, VA, plant and granted White Coffee Corp. exclusive rights to roast, package and distribute its coffees.

First Colony's brands include First Colony, Discoveries and Bakers Treat. Officials said the 109-year-old roaster will work closely with White Coffee to ensure that its former customers' needs are met through the transition.

"We are truly excited to be working with such well-respected brands," said Jonathan White, White Coffee executive vice-president. "We look forward to offering the same great coffees and packaging, and we look forward to welcoming First Colony users into the White Coffee family."

White Coffee was founded in 1939 and is based in Long Island City, NY. It roasts coffee under proprietary and private-label brands. It's also licensed to produce coffee under the Kahlua, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Entenmann's and Junior's brands.